Aunt Ella'S Macaroni And Cheese
A creamy, cheesy baked macaroni dish infused with sharp Cheddar, mustard, and nutmeg, perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish.
- Cook the elbow noodles in boiling water until al dente, then drain and return to the pan.
- Stir in the butter and well-beaten egg into the cooked noodles.
- In a large bowl, combine dry mustard, salt, and ground nutmeg with a tablespoon of boiling water to make a paste.
- Add the milk, 2 1/2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese, grated onion, and the macaroni mixture into the bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with additional Cheddar cheese and paprika on top if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot and enjoy this comforting classic.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture. If you're out of elbow noodles, any short pasta can work in a pinch. For a flavor boost, try using smoked Gouda or a blend of cheeses. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add some heat to the dish, complementing the cheddar's richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni and cheese as a delightful main dish or a side with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. You can also complement it with garlic bread or a slice of savory pie, like the Oatmeal Cake And Topping for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions; just add a splash of milk to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Ella'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 388 calories, with 7g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 536mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze leftover macaroni and cheese?
Absolutely! Allow the macaroni and cheese to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake or microwave until warmed throughout.
What can I add to customize my macaroni and cheese?
Feel free to mix in cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to create your own unique version of this classic dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).